Around the Primary

Dear Parents

This morning all children attended a Remembrance Day service with the traditions of the Last Post, one minute's silence and the National Anthem. This provided the opportunity for all of us to reflect upon the contribution of so many men and women who have served or who are still serving our country in military service and also to consider how we might try to embrace the special qualities of gratitude and renewed hope in our daily lives.

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

The hectic pace of Term 4 has set in and it has come to my attention that some children are arriving late for school or leaving early. It is very important that all children attend school frOm 8.45 am until 3.15 pm each day. Whilst we understand that parents may need to collect their children early on the odd occasion or for medical appointments, it is very important that children be at school for the full day. Teachers commence face-to-face teaching at 8.50 am and children arriving late or being picked up early, compromises the teaching and learning program for the whole class as class time is interrupted.

It is also disappointing to note that many children missed school or were picked up early for recent 'social' camps as this is also extremely disruptive to the rest of the class. It is important that all parents consider this when planning for future events and we look forward to all families co-operating with us on this issue.

I would also like to take this opportunity to share some staffing news. Firstly, Miss Adriana Coniglio has been appointed as Assistant Principal at Aranmore Catholic Primary School. While we are very sad to be losing such a valuable staff member, we wish Adriana all the very best in her new role. Secondly, Mrs Brenda Meredith will be retiring after 17 years of dedicated service at the College. Her devotion to the children of the Mary Ward Centre is inspirational and Brenda is wished very well for her last few teaching weeks with us. I am also delighted to announce that Ms Kylie Allen will be joining the John XXIII community as Assistant Principal from January 2013.

As you are aware our Presentation Evening will take place on Wednesday 28th November at the Perth Convention Centre. This is a compulsory event for students from Years 4-11. The program for the evening includes a Christmas Cantata presented by our talented Year 5 students and award presentations. More information will follow regarding tickets, parking, uniform requirements etc.